Iterative design

Iterative design is based upon sequential cycles of design, testing and refinement but not necessarily user involvement. However, both iterative design and user centred design are a powerful combination.

Iterative design recognises that, particularly when a complex product is being developed, it can be difficult to foresee all of the implications of early design decisions at the outset. Accommodating multiple cycles of design and evaluation can ultimately prove to be a more efficient and effective strategy. Given that users are complex and that their behaviour in relation to a design can be difficult to predict, an iterative approach can be particularly fruitful.